HM King receives US Defence Secretary; lauds Bahrain-US strategic relations, partnership

Manama, Oct. 28 (BNA): His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Supreme Commander, has lauded the strategic relations and strong partnership between Bahrain and the United States of America. HM the King praised the steady progress of cooperation across various fields, especially regarding military coordination and defence cooperation between Bahrain and the US, as two friendly countries and allies with deep-rooted relations. HM King Hamad made the statements while receiving, at the Al-Sakhir Palace today, US Defence Secretary, Mark Esper, who is on a visit to the kingdom. HM the King welcomed the US Defence Defence Secretary and his accompanying delegation, and reviewed with them the long-standing bilateral relations, and ways to further develop them. HM King Hamad stressed that the Bahrain-US relations are based on decades-long mutual trust and respect, as well as shared keenness on achieving common goals and interests. HM the King and US Defence Secretary exchanged views on a number of issues and the latest developments of mutual interest, particularly in the region. HM the King expressed his appreciation to Secretary Mark Esper for his efforts to enhance the Bahraini-US relations in the military and defence fields. HM King Hamad praised the pivotal role played by the US Administration in strengthening the pillars of regional and global security, stability and peace, hailing the US Administration’s keenness on consolidating joint cooperation with Bahrain. The US Defence Secretary expressed thanks and appreciation to HM the King for the gracious welcome accorded to him and his delegation, praising the royal efforts to strengthen the solid bilateral relations and cooperation. Secretary Esper praised the pivotal role played by the Kingdom of Bahrain, as a major partner, in consolidating security and stability in the region for long decades.